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Sustainable Living with Seaweed Insulation and Recyclable Materials

Authors:
Vasiliki Geropanta, Anna Karagianni, Anastasia Karaspiliou
Sustainable Living with Seaweed Insulation and Recyclable Materials
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Constructed using seaweed insulation and locally sourced recyclable plastics, this microhome prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability while serving as a model for modern coastal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced recyclable plastics to combat coastal corrosion.
02
Incorporates seaweed as insulation, enhancing thermal performance and biodegradability.
03
Features a vertical aquaponic system that tracks the sun for optimal light exposure.
04
Designed to adapt living spaces through movable seaweed panels.
05
Promotes self-sufficiency by integrating food production within the living environment.

The Sea-wheel House is located on the island of Crete in Greece, designed to tackle current environmental issues through thoughtful architecture. The microhome focuses on reducing its carbon footprint by using materials sourced from the local area. Its functional design reflects values of sustainability, community, and flexibility, offering a solution for modern living in coastal environments.

Material Choice

The materials selected for the Sea-wheel House aim to lessen the ecological impact while ensuring durability. Recyclable plastics from the nearby beaches form the main structure of the building. This material choice addresses the problem of facade corrosion caused by salty sea air, which is a common concern for structures near the coast. Seaweed, used as insulation, not only provides effective thermal management but is also biodegradable, supporting the goal of sustainability in construction.

Interior Layout

The layout of the Sea-wheel House features adaptable spaces that serve various functions. A notable element is the wall with a vertical aquaponic system that moves with the sun. This arrangement optimizes natural light and contributes positively to the indoor environment by supporting the natural rhythms of the residents. The design includes both communal and private areas, such as a convertible bed-sofa at the front, ensuring comfort and practicality.

Sustainable Aspects

Key sustainable features of the Sea-wheel House include sloping glass solar panels and movable seaweed panels. The solar panels enhance energy efficiency by effectively capturing sunlight for energy needs. The movable seaweed panels can also be adjusted, allowing for varied space configurations and even creating outdoor seating. This flexibility helps residents engage more with their surroundings, promoting a lifestyle that values sustainability and interaction with nature.

Distinctive Feature

A remarkable aspect of the Sea-wheel House is the aquaponic system, providing fresh produce for occupants while also helping to regulate indoor temperatures during colder months. Its integration into the living space allows for interaction with the garden, fostering a connection to nature. This emphasis on blending living areas with natural elements creates a unique experience, encouraging self-sufficiency and enhancing everyday life.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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